How did you first hear about the PDWRA?
My daughter Amy achieved her long held desire to own a pug in 2018. Now 30, and having wanted one since she was 10, she knew all about their little ‘quirks’ as a breed! We all fell in love instantly with little Boo and I found myself becoming more fascinated by pugs as a breed. I’d always had dogs growing up but never a pug. Amy mentioned one day she’d heard of a charity that rehomed pugs. I did a little research and came across the PDWRA online, signed up to everything I could and the rest, as they say is history!
How did you come to make the decision to adopt through the PDWRA?
At the time we adopted Ralph, Pugs and Frenchie’s seemed to have soared in popularity. I couldn’t believe there was a charity literally dedicated to rehoming pugs. I’ve always used rescue centres and just feel that’s what I’d rather do to give a dog another chance at a happy life. The PDWRA seemed like an amazing charity and the perfect opportunity for us to welcome our own pug to the family.
When did you adopt your Ralph?
We adopted Ralph in January 2020. On a bitterly cold Saturday afternoon we drove almost 2 hours to a riding school in what seemed like deepest darkest Somerset. We’d been sent pictures of Ralph and fallen in love with him. Area Coordinator Jane McAllister was amazing at ensuring he was a good match, not just for us as a family but for Boo also, so I felt sure everything would be fine. We arrived and met Ralph’s foster family; they handed over what appeared to be an overly excitable bag of eels! I felt sure I was going to drop him; the energy and sheer liveliness did take me by surprise a little! We completed all the formalities and popped our new family member in the back of the car. He absolutely flaked out all the way home, bless him.
What made you decide to adopt?
We’d adopted previously through a little local charity. For me personally, I just feel it’s what I prefer to do. I do worry sometimes that in today’s materialistic society even dogs can become a status symbol or a fashion item, becoming very ‘sought after’ for a period sending prices from breeders soaring. Sadly, with breeds like pugs that have their little ‘quirks’, it’s all too easy to give them up when they become a bit of a challenge to care for.
Can you tell us a little bit about Ralph?
Ralph is an absolute character! He has two speeds, full on or asleep. I’d never heard the expression ‘Velcro Dog’, but Ralph is the dictionary definition! He’s just amazing, slightly crazy and we honestly can’t imagine life without him now. Boo is my daughter’s pug and although she isn’t with us all the time, it was obviously important to ensure any potential matches for us suited Boo. Boo is a black female and a year or so older than Ralph. From what I hear, she is a typical black female pug, earning her the nickname ‘Princess Boo’. She’s adorable but definitely has a slight attitude! She’s very much top dog and ensures Ralph knows this in the nicest way possible when she comes to visit.
How did you find the adoption process?
The adoption process was incredibly well managed, and Jane was amazing. We had a lengthy talk about the family, why we were looking at adopting a pug and what the relevant requirements would be, particularly as in a good match for Boo. Jane explained that with Boo’s character, we’d potentially be looking at a younger, more submissive male. Jane called me back sometime later and described Ralph. He sounded so cute. He’s a brindle and in trying to describe him, Jane said he had markings like a tiger or that he should be called Tigger. She sent a photo through and from that moment I just wanted to pick him up! His markings are beautiful and draw lots of comments as people are more used to seeing fawn or black pugs, while Ralph is a mixture.
Anything you think prospective adoptive or foster parents should know?
I would say to make sure you know the quirks of the breed. As mentioned, my daughter Amy wanted a pug for years. She’d educated herself incredibly well and made sure I knew about the breed as I’d be looking after Boo occasionally, I’d never heard of reverse sneezing! I’ve had dogs all my life, but pugs are definitely a breed apart and it’s good to ensure you know all the possible issues to take care of before you commit.
What has life been like since adopting Ralph?
We can’t imagine life without Ralph now. He’s become an amazing little companion for my teenager. Ralph came into our lives just as we were about to go into lockdown in 2020. This period was a cause of extreme anxiety for my child, then only 10yrs old. Ralphs cuddles, slightly mad personality and just his general presence definitely helped. It was incredible to see their bond from day one and Ralph is such a big part of this family now. Thank you so much to PDWRA and in particular, Jane McAllister.
